Potential for longer wait times at G&M

Stayner Sun

COLLINGWOOD - Due to an influx of patients accessing the emergency department at Collingwood General and Marine Hospital, there is a potential for longer than normal wait times, the hospital said Wednesday.

The hospital said the increased volume is due to people experiencing seasonal illnesses such as respiratory infections and influenza.

“Although the hospital has been meeting provincial benchmarks for wait times, the emergency department continues to see a larger than typical volume of patients, which can backlog and slow the system,” G&M said in a news release.

People experiencing flu-like symptoms should steer clear of the hospital unless absolutely necessary.

Influenza symptoms include fever, cough, weakness and lethargy.

The hospital said that influenza can be transmitted for 24 hours before the onset of symptoms and for five days after the onset of symptoms.

If you do have to visit the hospital, G&M reminds people to practice diligent hand washing and consider getting the flu shot.